Top 7 Portuguese Culinary delights served in restaurants around Lisbon.

The bustling Portuguese capital, steeped in history and culture offers a most wonderful experience to any kind of traveller. With any such place comes also a cuisine that has had years of perfecting and therefore intricate and varied as the city itself. Whether you’re planning a trip to Lisbon any time soon or not, here are 7 local dishes that are definitely worth digging into.

Arroz de Marisco 

Shellfish from spider crab, lobster, cockles and prawns flavored with chili and a generous sprinkle of fresh coriander is tossed onto a soupy bed of rice, milder than a paella and less sticky than risotto.

1p

Photo: Adria Garcia 

Pasteis de Nata

2p

The infamous custard tarts served in every cafè in the city, are a bit of a staple delicacy enjoyed at any time of the day with an espresso or as the locals call it, bica. The Antigua Confeitaria in Bélem is said to be the most authentic, making theirs to the original recipe. Try them sprinkled with cinnamon!

Bacalhau

3p 

Pateis de Bacalhau

Being a coastal city, Lisbon has a wide choice of fresh fish so it is a bit of a surprise that the Portuguese have a penchant for dried cod fished in far away seas. There are over 300 ways of preparing Bacalhau, the most common being small croquettes served with vegetables and mash potatoes.

Açorda

4p

Restaurants now do a very elaborate version of this dish compared to the original ‘poor man’s soup’ that consisted of water flavored with garlic and oil thickened with stale bread and egg. The sort of purée is covered with seafood (marisco) or served with small fillets of deep fried fish or both.

Frango à Piri Piri

5p

Chicken is treated to a thorough marinade before being grilled to perfection and served with chili oil or as the locals call chili: Piri-piri.

Ameijoas

6p 

The simplicity of this favorite Portuguese dish is what makes it well, a favorite. For lovers of seafood this is a taste of heaven. Clams are briefly cooked in their own juices with a healthy serving of olive oil, plenty of crushed garlic and served with fresh coriander and lemon. So good you’d want to dunk the bread into those juices till the very last drop.

Presunto and Enchidos

Presunto is the Portuguese name for cured ham, which is usually dried in salt or smoked and then rolled in bright orange paprika powder. Enchidos refers to the wide selection of seriously spiced sausages and salamis. Give them a try or buy a few to take home.

Article sponsored by the Corinthia Hotels.

How to pack for an outdoor vacation to the USA

 

the Alps are the perfect venue for an outdoor vacation ... photo by CC user BraunW on wikimedia

Packing for an outdoor vacation to the USA can be very much like a military-style operation. Unlike a beach vacation, for which you simply need enough clothing to cover your modesty, or a city break, which requires a camera and very little else in terms of specialist equipment, an outdoor vacation that incorporates camping, hiking, or numerous other adventurous activities can be a little more complicated. Besides making sure you’re not in need of an ESTA visa for the US, in which you should check here, estapermits.org, here are some more tips!

Prior planning prevents poor packing

If you are likely to be setting up camp or staying in a lodge far from the nearest town, it is essential that you have packed everything you could possibly need for your trip; after all, you would not want to be caught short. Planning the contents of your backpack carefully before you set off is vital, and may literally save your life if something should go wrong. If you know you are going to be taking part in certain activities, such as those offered by Outdoor Traveler, the adventure vacation specialists, be sure you pack anything that will not be included in the packages you have booked. Safety equipment is usually included, but it pays to be clear. Outdoor Traveler also has a social media presence, so be sure to follow them to see the latest adventure travel opportunities.

The very first thing to consider as you begin your packing list is the type of activities you are likely to be undertaking during your vacation. It is important to cater to your itinerary by packing appropriate clothing, footwear, accessories, and gadgets. As the weather can be fairly unpredictable, whatever the season, packing a few all-weather items can be a great help; even if it is the height of summer, be sure to include a lightweight jacket and some thicker garments, just in case the weather turns.

In terms of accessories and gadgets, it is important to remember such items as a tent, should you be camping, a reusable water bottle, a strong backpack, a flashlight with spare batteries, a watch, and a map and compass, or GPS system. The US has great satellite and cell coverage so signal won’t be an issue. A small first aid kit and a sewing kit for clothing-related emergencies are also necessary, while a cell phone and mobile charging device will allow you to alert someone should you get lost. Whenever possible, try not to travel alone and always tell someone where you are going.

It is important to treat your packing with the same precision as each activity you are likely to undertake. Carefully research the items you are likely to need, choose items of clothing with the terrain and conditions in mind and, above all, keep your own safety in mind at all times. Adventure vacations can be a blast, but make sure you are properly prepared before setting foot anywhere.

 

Top 10 City Destinations to Do On a Budget

Even in the city destinations to do on a budget, sights like this can still be seen.

City breaks are great value for money and the latest figures from ABTA show that more of us choose them than beach holidays. If you are on a budget it pays to shop around for the best deals. Buying airport car parking in advance works out cheaper, and car hire insurance is the best way to avoid paying high charges if your hire car is damaged or stolen. Our top ten city destinations to do on a budget are:

1.Budapest
With its Art Nouveau architecture, romantic cafes and spa baths, Budapest is a wonderful destination at any time of the year. Walk across the Széchenyi Chain Bridge to enjoy the best views of the Danube.

2. Vilnius
The medieval Old Town of Vilnius is home to the cathedral and the lakeside castle of Trakai. Lithuanian cuisine is excellent and calorific, so walk it off with a wander around Uzupis, Vilnius’s equivalent of Montmartre, with galleries, cafes and workshops.

3. Warsaw
Warsaw’s lively nightlife and fascinating Old Town make it a great place for a cheap break. Don’t miss the National Theatre, the Chopin Museum and the many memorials to the city’s wartime history.

4.Prague
Must-sees in Prague include the Art Deco architecture of the shopping arcades by Wenceslas Square. The Prague card covers entry to over 50 attractions, such as the Astronomical Clock, the Jewish Cemetery and Prague Castle.

5.Lisbon
In winter, the climate is balmy and although summer temperatures may soar, it is only 20 minutes drive to cool off at the beach. Must-sees: the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos and the 9th-century Castelo São Jorge.

6.Riga
Riga stands at the crossroads between east and west. Its lively nightlife makes it popular with stag and hen parties, and it offers visitors a dazzling variety of cuisines. Riga is surrounded by water, with the sea on one side and many lakes on the other.

7.Tallin
Hotels in Tallin are excellent value and the food is perfect for visitors with hearty appetites. Tallin was the European City of Culture in 2014 and is renowned for its music and film festivals, which are among the best in Eastern Europe.

8.Dubrovnik
For many holidaymakers, the highlight of Dubrovnik is the 2km walk around the town’s ancient walls that offers views over rooftops, countryside and sea. Don’t miss a ride in the cable car to the top of Mount Srdj, or try sea-kayaking around the coast.

9.Istanbul
Istanbul is home to unique historical treasures such as the Blue Mosque and the Topkapi Palace, home of the Ottoman emperors. Take a Bosphorus tour to experience the beautiful views from the water. Enjoy traditional street food such as kebabs and don’t forget to treat yourself to some authentic Turkish delight!

10.Brussels
Beer, moules, frites and chocolate are sure to play their part in your visit but don’t miss taking in a little culture. The Brussels card gives entry to a wide range of attractions, including the Magritte Museum and the Chocolate Museum.

The best spas in Europe

The best spas in Europe have decor that relax the client upon entry ... photo by CC user Avilash behera on wikimedia

Those looking for a truly exquisite experience during their luxury holidays in Europe should make an effort to visit one of the many soothing spas that can be found across the continent. From Sicily to Scandinavia, there are many resorts that fit the bill perfectly, but the following five can be considered among the very best spas in Europe for the atmosphere that they create for their deserving clientele.

1) Therme del Parco, Forte, Italy

Looking to unknot all the tension in those tight muscles after a long week of sightseeing across Italy? Checking into Therme del Parco will prove to be a wise decision, as this spa has a well-established track record of pampering professional athletes and other well-known celebrities in need of world class care.

With over 40 specialists on staff across 20 rooms, you won’t wait long to be served, and state of the art equipment like thalassotherapy pools that will knead away your sore muscles in record time, you will get excellent value for the price that you pay here.

2) Viva Mayr, Lake Worth, Austria

While the most effective treatments in spas focus on your battered body, the first curative effects you’ll notice when at Viva Mayr in Austria will be on your mind, as the gorgeous views of the snow-capped Alps will set your mind at ease in between treatments on their well-situated deck.

Based on the teachings of Dr. Franz Mayr, this institution heals you by focusing on changing the way you eat, and by cleansing the damage that your prior habits have already wreaked on your body. Over five days, they will set you on the path to a more energetic life, leaving you a brand new person at the end of your time there.

3) Europe Hotel Resort, Killarney, Ireland

For some, the emerald green hills and placid lakes of Ireland is just want they need to reset their mind and bodies. The best place to achieve this goal on this magical isle is at the Europe Hotel Resort in Killarney, as the relaxing vistas soothe the mind as the hydrotherapy pools take all the stress out of every muscle and joint within you.

4) Grand Hotel Oslo, Oslo, Norway

The perfect way to end a holiday spent viewing fjords along the Norwegian coast is to check into the Grand Hotel Oslo, as its highly regarded spa is considered to be one of the best spots to relax in all of Northern Europe.

With luxurious stonework throughout and divine Artesia body scrubs being its biggest claim to fame, you might find yourself extending your stay here one more night for the spa alone.

Italy’s most romantic spots

Italy's most romantic spots include the Stone Bridge of Verona ... photo by CC user pcdazero on pixabay

La bella Italia, the country of love and romance. How does one ever go about choosing where to pass a romantic Italian vacation with that special someone? There are just too many options, all enticing and romance evoking. Don’t get overwhelmed, I have compiled a list of the most romantic Italian destinations, from Sicily’s gorgeous villas with pools to Juliet’s balcony in Verona, you are sure to find the perfect spot (or spots) to pass that romantic vacation with your sweetie.

Sunset cruising in Sicily

Rent that gorgeous Sicilian villa, but tear yourself away from the house for a private sunset cruise along Sicily’s pristine, breathtaking, exquisite coast. You can even sail out to the Egadi islands, or the Aeolian for that matter. I can’t recommend one over the other, as they are both beautiful, I just insist you go! Crack open that bottle of champagne, or go Sicilian style with a Passito di Pantelleria. Watch the sun say goodnight to the Mediterranean, caressing her salty waves with orange and pink kisses, and you’re sure to wind up smooching in under the Sicilian sunset as well.

Verona

Verona is home to Shakespeare’s most famous doomed and star-crossed lovers. In Verona, you can take your lover to the house that belonged to Juliet in the classic Shakespearean tragedy. Stand below the balcony where our good ol’ Romeo declared his ever-loving devotion, and touch the breast of Juliet’s bronze statue for good luck (and good love).

Amalfi Coast

While Italy is packed with majestic views, cities, and towns, one of the most magical is just a bit south of Naples. It is called the Amalfi coast, and it is dotted with picturesque little towns clinging to the edge of steep cliffs, overlooking a turquoise Mediterranean below. Rent a car and take the most romantic, memorable, and adventurous drives of your life down these pretty little country roads.

Rome

Rome, the mother of all romance. History is everywhere in Rome, but I recommend ditching the guidebook and wandering down her picturesque cobblestone paths holding hands with your loved one. Savor the sights and sounds, enjoy the chic little shops, eat some of Italy’s best cuisine in romantic mom-and-pop restaurants. If you’re looking for real luxury, get a room in the Hotel Hassler, which is where Katie Holmes and Tom Cruise stayed before they were married in Italy. It is at the top of the Spanish Steps, which are arguably the most romantic stairs in the entire country (maybe the world!)

A helicopter over Mount Etna

Come fly with me, baby, right over Mount Etna and out to the Aeolian islands. Take a helicopter for a bird’s eye view of Sicily’s major active volcano, then head out to another island, much smaller, with another active volcano, Stromboli. Talk about a flaming romance! Stop for a massage, lunch and a swim at Capofaro on the island of Salina before jetting back to your romantic villa. Now that is hot, if I’ve ever seen it!

Know why America observes President’s Day

President's Day is a meaningful time to visit Mount Rushmore ... photo by CC user Sfmontyo on wikimedia

The United States of America observes Washingtons Birthday as Presidents Day every year. This federal holiday is observed on the third Monday of February.

The country comes together on this day to remember all of its past Presidents including their birthdays, lives and contributions. It has been made to include in fact all Presidents past, present and future at the same time.

Therefore Presidents Day or Presidents Day both stand correct. Initially it was started to honor George Washington, who was the first and amongst the most popular ones of these. Then later on it was realized that Abraham Lincoln too was born in the same month.

Other US Presidents who have their birthdays in February are William Henry Harrison and Ronald Reagan. This federal observance is also a holiday in many states. It is noteworthy that some states celebrate it in memory of Washington and Thomas Jefferson or even some other person. For instance, in Arkansas it is celebrated as Daisy Gatson Bates Day.

For many years now America is considered as a super power and attracts travelers from far and wide. Many want to holiday here and some would prefer to migrate here. They all need to apply for suitable visa categories and obtain them before entering.

Those on a temporary visit and are foreign nationals typically need the tourist visa. Interestingly citizens of certain countries come under the Visa Waiver Program that its run by the government. These people dont need to apply for any tourist visa and still get to travel. All they need to do is check ESTA Visa status before traveling.

This holiday in February is famous for its sales, especially those from car dealers. Still while many overlook the commercialization of this day. A major part of this day is to remember the country’s veterans.

It is same as with Veterans Day and Memorial Day. When it all began George Washington was seen as the father of his nation, this leadership skills and other accomplishments were celebrated on his birthday which falls on the 22nd of February. He is seen as a key person in American history till date.

The Washington Monument was also constructed in his honor. To pay tributes to this great man his hometown Alexandria in Virginia carries on with month long celebrations as a community.

The key attraction of this is the birthday parade which has been running for many years now. The George Fest is celebrated every year on by the Eustis community in Florida. This has been continuing since 1902.

Interestingly this day was celebrated for the first time when the President was still alive. It started towards the end of 18th century. It later became official in 1885. This was when the then President Chester Arthur made it a federal holiday.

Then next in 1968 Uniform Monday Holiday Bill was passed. This resulted in this and other holidays being shifted to Mondays so that workers could enjoy three day weekend.

Affordable hotels in Leeds England

Get one of the affordable hotels in Leeds England, then go exploring this modern and historic city... photo by CC user 93416311@N00 on Flickr

Planning for a trip whether it is local or overseas can be very involving. It takes a lot of time and requires a bit of check and balancing. No one can really go for a trip without planning and expect to have a time of their life.

Where will you stay?

What will you eat?

And what will you be exploring during your trip?

These are just but some of the questions that one needs to ask themselves before going out on a wild trip. For thus reasons websites such as travelmov.com and others have long been known to provide travellers with exclusive information related to their travel destinations.

Leeds is one of England’s most treasured travel destination points. The city has been referred to as a powerful industrial powerhouse in the North. The city started out as a humble Roman settlement and a trading post in the medieval era but grew to become one of the best metropolises in England.

There are a number of hotels available that can be used to provide accommodation to visitors who are willing to pay a visit to the industrial city. Whether you want to book cheap hotels in Leeds or feel philanthropic enough and go for the luxurious suites, the city can meet your needs in every level.

Let us take time to explore some of the budget friendly hotels that are available in Leeds that can provide accommodation to the visitors wishing to explore what the city has to offer.

  1. Leeds Marriott Hotel

Rated as a 4 star hotel, Leeds Marriott Hotel is located at the city centre and is known to have an indoor swimming pool. The hotel boasts of having extremely awesome decorations that portrays creativity of the highest order.

The Leeds Marriott Hotel is also known to have a wide range of facilities which can be enjoyed by visitors from all around the world. The swimming pool provides you with a perfect antidote to what might look like a hectic city life. The gym facility has also proved to be very helpful to anyone who needs a workout session.

  1. Bewleys Hotel Leeds

At just £40 per night, the hotel is reasonably affordable. If you are looking to go on leisure or a business trip, this hotel provides you with a perfect opportunity to go the same. The hotel is conveniently located in close proximity to the motorways, train station and airport to guarantee a safe trip to and from the hotel’s residency.

  1. Radisson Blu Hotel, Leeds

For an average of about $50 for a single night, Radisson Blu Hotel offers budget travellers with a wonderful opportunity to explore what the city has to offer. With over 147 luxurious guest rooms, a lounge and a bar, you are most definitely guaranteed of a perfect stay in the hotel. Since the hotel is connected to the Light Leisure and Entertainment Centre you can take advantage of everything that is on offer at this exclusive hotel.

The history of Benidorm, Spain

The history of Benidorm has more to it than beaches, though this vintage photo looks pretty sweet ... photo by CC user 49093093@N02 on Flickr

It is the best time of year to plot out your holiday plans for 2015, with many parts of Southern Europe figuring into the aspirations of travelers. If you’re going for a Short all-inclusive break to Benidorm, Spain this summer season, it pays to brush up on the history of the region to give yourself a better sense of the place that you are about to visit.

So read up on the following fun facts about the history of Benidorm and impress newly made travel friends at the bar … no need to thank us!

Origins

Traces of Punic and Roman settlement have been found in the Benidorm area that put the history of human presence here as far back as 5,000 years.

However, it was the Moors that established the first major community here, laying down roots and giving this community its name back in the 13th century.

With the Christian conquest of the area just a century later though, Benidorm officially became a town, with the granting of its charter in 1325.

Its fishing history & struggles with intruders

Being the home to roving fishermen that sailed the high seas in search of the finest marine life to grace the dinner tables of Spain, Benidorm was a humble town that was home to their lonely families for much of the season.

This fact must have made their breadwinners nervous and worrisome as they did their jobs far from home, as their home suffered from a number of pirate attacks that led to the town being razed a number of times over its history.

In response to this, the castle (which no longer exists) was increased in size in the 16th and 17th centuries, providing badly needed security that finally enabled the town to grow, along with an irrigation system that opened up another avenue of growth for the region, as farmers now had insurance against dry years, allowing them to tend the soil with confidence.

Benidorm’s rise as a tourism hotbed

After rising to its apex as a fishing hotspot in the 18th and 19th centuries, the industry began to decline, with economic losses starting to pick up speed around 1952. It was at this time when that the town’s council began to explore tourism as a way to diversify its economy, and by 1956, they began to build the promenades that hordes of visitors stroll along in the present day.

It was the construction of the Alicante airport in 1967 that really fuelled their current success though, as waves of Britons began to arrive after being linked to these significantly sunnier shores by the brand new miracle of jet liner travel.

Top Tips For A UK Tour

Stonehenge is an essential part of any UK Tour ... photo by CC user francescovolpi on Flickr

TAKE A COACH TOUR

A coach tour of the UK is a unique way of getting around the regions that make up the United Kingdom. Though it is not as fast as taking trains or flights, it is affordable and gives you an opportunity to explore the most famous places closely. There are many private coach companies across the UK, and you can choose one that best suits your tastes and budget. Enjoy fantastic rides past the English countryside through to the gorgeous cities and to through scenic coast routes. Coach tours are a great way to see the UK; they may take a few days and may include stopovers in hotels and famous sights.

STAY IN UNIQUE AND INTERESTING ACCOMMODATION

One of the ways of making your tour of the UK more exciting and unforgettable is by staying in unique accommodations rather than ordinary hotel rooms. Fortunately, the UK boasts of a remarkable number of interesting accommodations ranging from Iron Age round houses with thatched roofs to towering windmills and tree houses. Whatever your imagination may be, unique accommodations in the UK go beyond the ordinary. Some of the quirky accommodations include Wanderlust Gypsy Caravans in Cumbria, Clay windmill in Norfolk, Log House Cabins in the Cotswolds, Chapel Studio in Sommerset and Safari tents in Devon.

TAKE A SELF DRIVE TOUR

A self-drive tour is a great way to explore the amazing regions of the UK. The UK has numerous attractions in the cities, the countryside and along the coast. Enjoy scenic rides across the inspiring English countryside, stop over major cities, soak up in history and culture, and do not forget to stop over a village and enjoy local cuisines and drinks. The UK has a great network of well-marked roads, which makes it easier to travel from one region to the next. A self-drive tour of the UK gives you an opportunity to explore at your own pace and change your routes whenever you wish. If you want to save on accommodation then you can even do it in a campervan like one of these Spaceships and drive to your hearts content wherever you wish!

Contact Great British Trips for more info.

STAY IN LUXURY GROUP ACCOMMODATION

Teaming up with friends and relatives and staying in luxury group accommodation gives you an opportunity to live like royalty in the UK. The UK boasts of a stunning selection of large holiday houses some originally castles or manor houses deep in the countryside. Forget your tiny city apartment and enjoy the finer things in life in luxury group accommodations. Most of the luxury group accommodation offer spacious well-furnished rooms, manicured gardens, gym, tennis courts, swimming pools and well-equipped kitchens.

VISIT STONEHENGE

Stonehenge is a mysterious arrangement of rocks and is a source of numerous debates, assumptions and one of the most famous sights in the world. UK has numerous monuments, castles, parks and other attractions but nothing quite compares to Stonehenge. A visit to these fascinating rock arrangements is a highlight of any UK tour. Visit the iconic Stonehenge, join in the debate, and at the same time let your mind jog in finding meaning to these extraordinary rocks.

Different Options For A UK Break

Getting away to the Scottish Highlands is one the better options for a UK break ... photo by conner395 on Flickr

A COTTAGE BREAK IN SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

The mist shrouded purple mountains that constitute the Scottish Highlands are steeped in legend, mystery and history. It is a land of breathtaking unspoilt natural beauty with mysterious lochs, stunning glens and spectacular islands.

A cottage break in the Scottish Highlands is one of the best options for a UK break, as it rewards you with jaw dropping scenery ranging from rugged peaks to enchanting beaches. You can choose your cottage holiday in bustling destinations such as Inverness, beautiful Oban or a private spot along the unspoilt beaches along the coast.

The Scottish Highlands are perfect for any kind of holiday including adventure, romantic, family and even group holidays. There is a lot to do in the Scottish Highlands for everyone such as fishing, hiking, walking, mountaineering, climbing, cycling, island hopping, ancient castles and exploring sleepy villages. A cottage in the Scottish Highlands serves as a comfortable base to pursue all the outdoor activities.

VISIT STONE HENGE

The Stonehenge rock arrangement is one of the most iconic ancient attractions in the UK and a source of heated debates among individuals, scientists, archeologists and historians. It is a pre-historic structure in Wiltshire, whose origins continue to baffle many. It is more than just a monument and serves as a reminder of the past and history of the area and a tribute to the artisans who built it centuries ago. Stonehenge has survived the test of time, harsh elements of weather and human activities, take time to marvel at this amazing structure during your UK break.

A GALVANISING GOLF BREAK

Golfing breaks in the UK are popular amongst many travelers and locals alike due to the immense variety of fabulous courses all across the country for every level of golfer. There is an admirable variety of courses ranging from the classics such as St Andrews and East Lothian to enviable Ryder Cup Venues such as Belfry and Celtic Manor.

Whatever your handicap, budget or taste, taking a golf break in the UK is always rewarding and relaxing for families, couples and even groups. You can find different kinds of accommodation near the course of choice and even if you choose to travel to different courses during your break, getting around in UK is easy. Some of the best destinations for golf breaks in UK include Ireland, Scotland, England and Wales.

EXLORE THE HAUNTED CITY OF YORK

The human mind is always trying to discover everything that seems out of the ordinary. York is a spectacular destination with incredible Tudor Style buildings, shops, boutiques and the famous Minster. People say it is the most haunted place in the whole of the UK due to its ancient architecture.

The Minster is a massive Gothic cathedral and the largest of its kind in the whole of northern Europe. Its soaring towers on either side give the cathedral an almost castle-like appearance and its magnificent image is visible across the whole city of York. Inside the Abbey, you will witness amazing architectural work that may have taken artisans years upon years of hard work.